As a fashion editor with over a decade of experience writing about party season dressing, my advice for anyone would be to find two key pieces: a classic little black dress and a good pair of velvet trousers.
Trust me, if you're trying to plan Christmas party outfits, velvet trousers will change your life. Not only are they available in the most festive colours like flattering black, rich burgundy and Christmas tree green, they are so easy and cosy to wear and will make you feel incredibly confident. Whether you choose slim or wide leg fit, they'll give you a sleek silhouette, and the beauty of a classic pair of black velvet trousers is that unlike a normal pair of tailored trousers, you honestly can get away with adding in a blazer that doesn't actually match. Who will be able to tell? Nobody.
Inspired by our recent trip down memory lane, reminiscing about Carole Middleton's velvet trousers, I've hit the virtual high street to find the 9 best velvet trousers to help you show your soft side this party season. Team any of the styles below with a crisp white shirt, a camisole or a matching blazer.
Shop the best velvet trousers on the high street
There's a reason we all love Zara quite so much. My treasured velvet blazer is actually from Zara, and the only reason I didn't buy the matching trousers is because they'd already sold out! Don't make the same mistake as me - add these to your winter capsule wardrobe, pronto.
In a rich merlot colour, these might just be my favourite. The go-faster stripe down the side is classic ME+EM and will elongate your leg even if you only wear them with your most comfortable trainers. Check out the ME+EM sale if you're in the mood for a bargain.
These are the pair that I have, and at less than half price (with an extra 20% off for Black Friday!), I'm seriously considering buying more. I thought they were going to be too long on the leg. But when I tried them on I was immediately sold. They always get compliments and feel really smart - perfect for any festive work events you might have in the diary.
Sequins and velvet? The dream! Mint Velvet is one of my favourite British clothing brands at the moment, and these are a great example of their very chic aesthetic. Keep your top and shoes simple to allow these showstopper trousers to do all the talking...
Reiss is renowned for doing tailoring well, and I love the teal colour of these trousers. They're available in regular or petite lengths, but if they're a bit too much of an investment, head to our Reiss Black Friday finds.
These wide leg trousers look like they should cost ten times the price. The embellishment at the pockets is stunning, and they'll add a subtle bit of sparkle to your wardrobe for the colder months.
So festive! Mango's getting in on the action with these berry red trousers. Don't be afraid to fully embrace it, adding red heels and of course, red lipstick to complete the Christmassy look.
You probably know Nobody's Child for their flattering floral midi dresses, but did you know their suits and separates are well worth shopping too? These black velvet trousers are a great alternative to denim and need only a nice top.
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Bold in burgundy: Celebrities who nailed the red wine aestheticFrom Salma Hayek to Kylie Minogue, these stylish stars are proof that burgundy is a timeless trend...
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7 Christmas plants that are toxic to pets: experts warn against bringing them into your home for the holidaysYou may want to rethink the placement of your fresh Christmas decorations because many common Christmas plants are poisonous to pets
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Holly Willoughby’s daring LBD is the velvet piece you’ll be seeing at every festive party this seasonHolly Willoughby stunned in a velvet midi dress with a plunging neckline
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This stunning quilted Radley tote bag is under £60 for Cyber Monday – it's the chicest way to carry your everyday essentialsThere are huge savings to be found in the Radley sale
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Ruth Langsford uses practical winter accessories to bring striking colour and pattern into all-black lookRuth Langsford took her casual jeans and blazer to the next level with a bold winter scarf and timeless designer handbag
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This reversible bra by Spanx is reduced to just £15 - the bestselling style "fits like a second skin"The Spanx Breast of Both Worlds reversible comfort bra is reduced from £45
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Sorry to my little black dress - Amal Clooney's ruby red sequins are making me embrace more festive coloursWe're mesmerised by Amal's sequin midi dress
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Gillian Anderson styles UGG boots as formal wear in genius move to keep warm this winterWe'd never thought of styling our cosy UGGs like this before
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Jennifer Aniston's North Face jacket is the extra-warm layer to bundle up in this winterWith a pair of leather gloves and a cosy oversized scarf, Jennifer Aniston battled the winter chill in style
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Gabby Logan's luxurious sequin dress is the party piece every wardrobe deservesNothing beats sequins for festive occasionwear - and we've found the ultimate dress
